Phil Tufnell says England must ‘keep their foot on the Aussies’ throats’ going into the one day series (Picture: Andy Hooper)

With back-to-back Ashes next year, Tufnell feels Alastair Cook ’s men can snuff out any confidence gained by the Aussies following a resurgence under new captain Michael Clarke .

With the five-match series starting tomorrow, former England spinner Tufnell said: ‘England will want to keep doing well because they’ve had it over the Aussies for the last few years. They’ll want to keep their foot on their throat and not give them any encouragement ahead of the Ashes.

‘Australia are coming back from a time in the wilderness and they have a young team with a new enthusiasm. But England have had the wood over them and want to keep it that way.’

Once Australia depart, England play South Africa in a series that should be the summer highlight.

Tufnell, hosting his own hospitality ‘VIP club’ during the opening Test at the Kia Oval, added: ‘It’s going to be a great series. Seam bowling – I think we’re just ahead of them. Batting – they’ve got some great players so that’s even-stevens. It will be a tight and dangerous series for England.’